Holiday Events Near KSU: Festive Events in Marietta and Atlanta
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When the semester at Kennesaw State University wraps up, it signals the end of finals and the beginning of the holiday season. After all that hard work, it’s time to trade textbooks for festive lights. We’ve created the ultimate guide for KSU students looking for fun holiday events to de-stress and get into the spirit. Whether you want to stay on campus for a concert or explore the bigger festivals in Marietta and Atlanta, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- On-campus and local events: KSU offers budget-friendly on-campus events, while nearby Marietta provides a festive atmosphere with ice skating and markets.
- Broader holiday attractions: Explore events throughout Cobb County and Atlanta, from the drive-through Lights of Life to the dazzling Atlanta Botanical Garden displays.
- 21+ after-hours fun: Atlanta and The Battery offer holiday-themed bar crawls and sophisticated evening events like WildWoods: AGLOW at Fernbank Museum.
- Convenient home base: Copper Social’s location provides KSU students with easy access to all holiday festivities in Marietta and the greater Atlanta area.
Festive Fun on the Kennesaw Campus
You don’t have to go far from KSU to find your holiday cheer. The Kennesaw campus comes alive with festive events perfect for a study break or a fun evening with friends after your last final.
The Annual Bailey School of Music Holiday Concert
A campus favorite, the KSU’s Bailey School of Music Holiday Concert is the perfect way to kick off the season. This popular annual event features incredible performances from the KSU Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and various choirs, all performing holiday favorites that will have you feeling festive. Best of all, the concert is typically free and open to the public, making it an amazing and budget-friendly activity for students.
Other On-Campus Holiday Happenings
Beyond the main concert, the Kennesaw campus often hosts smaller events. Keep an eye out for student organization craft sales, decoration contests in the residence halls, or departmental holiday gatherings. These are great opportunities to connect with fellow students and enjoy the campus vibe. Check the KSU calendar of events regularly to stay updated on local happenings.
Marietta’s Magical Holiday Events
Just a short drive from campus, historic Marietta transforms into a scene straight out of a holiday movie. It’s the perfect place to experience classic, festive traditions and support local businesses.
Winter Wonderland and Festivities in Marietta Square
Downtown Marietta is magical during the holiday season. The square features a charming open-air ice skating rink, beautiful decorations, and dazzling lights that create a festive atmosphere. The annual Christmas Tree Lighting is a must-see, family-friendly event that brings the whole community together. Don’t miss out on Marietta’s annual holiday celebrations.
Mistletoe Market & Local Shopping
If you’re looking for unique, handmade gifts, the Mistletoe Market, hosted by the Junior League of Cobb-Marietta, is the place to be. This event is a fantastic opportunity to support local artists and find one-of-a-kind presents for friends and family, from visual arts to handmade crafts. It’s a fun way to get your holiday shopping done while exploring the Marietta neighborhood.
Lights of Life at Life University
For a more laid-back holiday experience, you can take a quick drive over to Life University’s campus in Marietta. Their Lights of Life event is a spectacular drive-through light display with over a million twinkling lights. It’s a great group activity, and since admission is charged per car, it’s a very affordable way to spend an evening with friends. The display often includes illuminated tunnels and unique, themed exhibits, making it a magical experience.
The Cobb County Holiday Artisan Market
If you’re looking for a wide variety of handmade gifts, be sure to check out the Cobb County Holiday Artisan Market at the Cobb County Civic Center. This large-scale festival features a huge selection of handcrafted goods, fine arts, and even live music. It’s the perfect spot to find a truly special gift while supporting the local creative community.
Marietta’s Annual Candlelight Tour of Homes
For a taste of local history and classic charm, the Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour is a wonderful choice. This event allows you to step inside beautifully restored historic homes that are festively decorated for the season. It’s a unique and enchanting way to experience the holidays and appreciate the city’s rich past.
Atlanta Attractions: Big City, Bright Lights
Ready for a bigger adventure? Atlanta is just a short drive away and offers some of the most spectacular holiday attractions in the region. It’s perfect for a weekend trip or a special night out.
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
This is one of Atlanta’s most famous holiday traditions. The Atlanta Botanical Garden puts on a spectacular light display with millions of twinkling lights, creating a truly magical experience. This large-scale attraction features incredible seasonal entertainment, but tickets often sell out fast, so be sure to plan and purchase yours in advance.
Christkindl Market and Other Festive Festivals
Experience a taste of a traditional German Christmas at Atlanta’s Christkindl Market. This festive festival is filled with delicious food, great entertainment, and a unique cultural atmosphere. It’s the perfect destination for a full day or evening of holiday cheer in the city. You can find even more upcoming events throughout the county to fill your calendar.
After-Hours and 21+ Holiday Fun
Once the family-friendly events wind down, Atlanta offers plenty of options for KSU students looking for after-hours entertainment and a lively social scene. These events are perfect for celebrating the end of the semester with friends.
Holiday Bar Crawls
If you’re ready to get into the festive spirit with a larger crowd, holiday-themed pub crawls are a popular choice. Join a SantaCon event or another organized bar crawl in Atlanta’s vibrant neighborhoods for a fun night of drinks, music, and holiday cheer.
Late-Night Events at The Battery
Located in Cobb County, The Battery Atlanta is not just for baseball fans. Its lively collection of bars and restaurants, including the popular Live! at The Battery Atlanta complex, often host after-hours parties and events, especially during the holidays. It’s a great place to celebrate with a high-energy, festive atmosphere.
WildWoods: AGLOW at Fernbank Museum
For a unique and visually stunning night out, check out Fernbank Museum’s “Fernbank After Dark” events that coincide with their WildWoods: AGLOW light display. This is a 21+ event that allows you to explore a stunning, glowing light display in the forest at night, with a cash bar and a more mature vibe.
KSU Holiday Event Guide: A Quick Reference Chart
| Feature | KSU Holiday Concert | Marietta Winter Wonderland | Lights of Life | Cobb County Artisan Market | Marietta Home Tour | Atlanta Garden Lights | Holiday Bar Crawls | WildWoods: AGLOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Location | KSU Kennesaw Campus | Historic Marietta Square | Life University | Cobb County Civic Center | Historic Marietta | Atlanta Botanical Garden | Various locations in Atlanta | Fernbank Museum |
| Typical Cost | ~$5 for students; ~$30 for others | Free to attend; $15 for skating | $10 per car/truck | Varies; typically a small admission fee | $30-35 | Ticketed; varies by day | Varies, typically includes admission/drink specials | $35-40 |
| Travel from KSU | On Campus | Approx. 10-15 minute drive | Approx. 10-15 minute drive | Approx. 15 minute drive | Approx. 10-15 minute drive | Approx. 30-45 minute drive | Approx. 30-45 minute drive | Approx. 30-45 minute drive |
| Best For | Music lovers, campus community | Family-friendly fun, classic holiday feel | Group outing, affordable date night | Unique gift shopping, supporting local artists | History buffs, classic holiday charm | A special night out, impressive photos | Socializing, party atmosphere | Unique date night, sophisticated fun |
| Vibe | Traditional & collegiate | Festive & community-oriented | Dazzling & convenient | Creative & bustling | Charming & historic | Dazzling & magical | High-energy & celebratory | Magical & upscale |
Your Holiday Hub at Copper Social
Living at Copper Social means you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy the best of the holiday season, from campus events to big-city attractions, all while having a comfortable space to call home.
The Perfect Location for Festive Fun
Copper Social offers a prime location for KSU students. Our community in Marietta provides easy access to campus, downtown Marietta, and the major highways that lead directly to Atlanta. This means less time commuting and more time enjoying the festive fun.
Unwind After the Celebration
After a day of exploring holiday markets or dazzling light displays, come home to your comfortable apartment at Copper Social. You can relax in our cozy study lounges, de-stress at the 24-hour fitness center, or just hang out with friends. Our relaxing community amenities and spacious floor plans provide the perfect retreat after a busy semester and a full day of celebrating.
FAQs: Your KSU Holiday Event Guide
What are some free holiday events near Kennesaw?
Many local celebrations are free! The KSU Bailey School of Music Holiday Concert, the Marietta Christmas Tree Lighting in the Square, and walking through local parks to see light displays are all great options that don’t require a ticket.
How can I find a calendar of events for Cobb County?
The Cobb County government website and local news outlets like Cobb County Events are excellent resources. They maintain a calendar of events that includes festivals, concerts, and seasonal activities happening all year round.
Is it easy to get from KSU to Atlanta for holiday attractions?
Yes, KSU is conveniently located near I-75, which provides a direct route into downtown and midtown Atlanta. Depending on traffic, the drive is typically 30-45 minutes, making it an easy trip for an evening or weekend event.
Make Copper Social Your Home for the Holidays
From on-campus concerts to the magical lights of Marietta and Atlanta, there is a wide range of holiday events available for KSU students to enjoy. Copper Social offers the ideal balance of proximity to campus and easy access to all the excitement. Ready to see what makes our community the perfect home base? Schedule a tour today and see why students love calling Copper Social home.
